I see it happening every day. A student helps a classmate with their work. A 9th grader works with a 1st grader as a mentor. An actor assists another cast member with a line. A teammate encourages a friend after a missed pass. A parent reaches out to a family in need. A colleague rolls up their sleeves to help a peer. A distinguishing trait of our community is how everyone invests in one another’s success. When it comes to building community, every step (no matter how small) counts.
Winter graced our campus with several inches of snow overnight. Mr. Lee and Mr. Perilli were in early to plow, shovel, and blow snow in preparation for everyone’s arrival and the day ahead. Basic paths marked the way for everyone to enter and find their way through our bucolic campus. There was much more to do.
What did every student do? They got it and understood that Mr. Perilli had more work ahead of him to complete the final removal of snow from the pathways and courtyard. And, as delicious as it can be to push through snow with your boots on, our kids understood that it was their task to support Mr. Perilli, to invest in his success and the day ahead, and to stay on the cleared paths as they walked off to their classrooms and homerooms.
On a related note, I regularly hear about how others are impressed with BCD students. From grandparents to admission counselors, volunteer organizations to high schools, so many people make an extra effort to let me know.
I received this recently: “Wanted to make sure you know that Susan and Karen were mightily impressed by ______. They loved his enthusiasm, genuine interest in his project and real feelings for the animals. They see a lot of kids go through, and they felt ______ was extraordinary.” If you have a quote to share with me, would you please send it to me ASAP at [email protected].
I’m collecting these for a future moment. Thanks!